White wine | Leyda Valley, Chile
Goutte d'Argent (French for 'Silver Drop') is a truly groundbreaking wine that bridges two worlds of fermentation tradition. Crafted by the renowned winemaker Pascal Marty—known for his work at Château Mouton Rothschild and Opus One—this wine is a world-first experiment in marrying Chilean terroir with Japanese precision. Produced in the cool-climate Leyda Valley, this Chardonnay is fermented using authentic Japanese Sake Yeast (n°7), a collaboration made possible by the Asahi Shuzo brewery, the creators of the famous 'Dassai' sake.
This unique fermentation process, conducted at ultra-low temperatures, results in a wine that behaves quite unlike a traditional Chardonnay. On the nose, it offers an elegant, complex aromatic profile featuring delicate notes of rice flowers, Japanese sake-like liquor, and fresh orchard fruits. On the palate, it exhibits a 'woodless' Chablis-like character; it is medium-bodied with bright, vibrant acidity, excellent smoothness, and a distinctive umami depth that lingers on the finish.
Because of its unique profile—combining the freshness of high-quality Chilean fruit with the clean, textural, and umami-rich influence of sake yeast—it is a remarkably versatile gastronomic wine. It thrives when paired with delicate flavors that might overpower traditional, heavily oaked Chardonnays. It is a brilliant match for sushi, sashimi, and other raw seafood dishes. Beyond Japanese cuisine, its elegant acidity and textural complexity make it a fantastic companion for grilled white fish, vegetable tempura, or even light poultry dishes. If you are looking to surprise your palate or host an unforgettable dinner party where wine meets the refined traditions of Japan, Goutte d'Argent is an essential cellar addition. It is intended for early consumption, showcasing its freshness, and is recommended to be served at a cooler temperature (around 7-10°C) to fully appreciate its crisp, mineral, and floral elegance.